Stoic Society Philosophy
The philosophy of our modern day Stoic Society is modeled after the teachings of the Zeno, the Greek philosopher who founded the Stoic philosophy in 300 BC. Zeno taught that a true Stoic was strong, calm and unmoved by good or bad fortune. A true Stoic would do all that was within their power to shape events according to their plans but always accept whatever happened. The Stoic believes a divine intelligence guides and governs their life always directing it toward an ultimate good.
History of the Stoic Society
Eastern Michigan University's oldest honorary society began in January 1909, at in informal gathering of students in the home of Mr. J. Stuart Lathers, Head of the Department of Oratory.
Early organization was simple and informal. There were no dues, officers, or guidelines. In fact the group had no name until after several meetings; Clark Davis suggested the present title.
Meetings were held at irregular intervals during the year to discuss topics of interest, hear speakers, sponsor plays and other events, etc. The pattern for the meetings, as intended by the founder, was followed: part of each evening devoted to education and part to recreation.
The Stoic Society really came to the attention of the student body in late spring of 1909 when it sponsored a play by a traveling group, the Ben Great Players. Proceeds began a scholarship fund to encourage promising second year students to return for a third year of study. (At the time, it was customary for those preparing to teach to study for only two years.)
Clare Milton received the first scholarship granted by the Society, which was also the first such award ever given at Eastern. He and his ten nominees were made members of the Stoic Society. It was this move, which marked the beginning of the organization's history as an honor society.
In 1911, a member of the Stoic Society, Amos Maggie, designed our Stoic pin. If you look closely at the intricate German silver pin, you will see that the letters of STOIC have been intertwined to make the design. Each new member receives one of these pins.
By 1921, it was decided that the recipient of the scholarship should keep the minutes for the ensuing year. Since then if has been customary to award scholarships to the officers in return for their services. Stoic-of-the-Year awards are also made to members who have worked particularly hard for the organization.
The procedure for selecting and receiving new members has changed over the years. Today members are selected on the basis of their academic standing after their sophomore year. Previously, faculty members recommended students using the following guidelines:
The Stoic Society has grown with the university. It continues to serve its functions of honoring outstanding students and providing scholarships for the officers. It aims to provide an opportunity for the members to get involved in the community both in service and social aspects.
Stoic members, drawn from all departments, have consistently earned respect and honors both on campus and in positions of leadership around the world. We sincerely hope that the present members will uphold these high standards and help bring about the added growth and success for the Stoic Society.
Last updated on Wednesday, September 27, 2006 8:50 AM